A Down Under Break Away

Australia immediately conjures images of the Sydney Opera House, the Great Barrier Reef, big-wave surfing, miles of Outback and a rather strange, and endearing, assortment of animals. While the country’s main cities offer charm, glamour, unique festivals, a well-preserved historical heritage, fabulous beaches and fun events, it’s also a land of immense contrast and captivating nature. The nation offers something for just about everyone – from water lovers, desert wanderers and canyon climbers, to arts and culture buffs, historians, and foodies. The country’s vast size makes it almost impossible to take it all in during a single visit, but you can pick and choose a perfect holiday according to your personal preferences.

Currency 

Local currency: Australian Dollar 
Symbol: $ 
ISO code: AUD 
Subunit: Cent 
Banknotes: $5, $10, $20, $50, $100 
Coins: 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1, $2 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: Yes 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: Yes 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Air: 

Main airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia 
International Airports: Sydney Airport, Melbourne Airport, Brisbane Airport 
Domestic Airports: Perth Airport, Adelaide Airport, Cairns Airport 

Road: 

Driving on the: Left 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes, in rural areas 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 

Railway system: Yes 
Subway System: No 

Water: 

Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: Yes 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

Australian cuisine is diverse, influenced by Aboriginal, European, Asian, and Middle Eastern cultures. Highlights include seafood like barramundi and prawns, BBQ (barbecue), meat pies, Vegemite, and ANZAC biscuits. Popular drinks include Australian wines, craft beers, and flat whites. 

Tipping: Optional, 10% if service is exceptional 

Annual rainfall: Varies by region 
Average temperature: Varies by region 

Summer: 

Average highs: 25-30°C 
Average lows: 15-20°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: 15-20°C 
Average lows: 5-10°C 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Australia depends on the region. Generally, spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. 

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: Yes 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes